The Real Reasons Why So Many Parents Hate Disney World

Disney World is a lot of things, but a relaxing vacation isn’t one of them. In fact, it can be quite the opposite. So, if you’re looking for a stress-free getaway, it’s best to steer clear of Disney, especially if you have kids in tow. Why? Because for some parents, it’s the most miserable place on earth, and there’s no arguing with that.

Sound familiar? You’re definitely not alone. While Disney World may be a dream destination for tots who are too young to know the difference, it’s far from an ideal vacation for parents. And there are plenty of Reddit readers who agree.

So, if you can relate to any of these things, don’t worry. These are the very real reasons why Disney World is the absolute worst for parents.

1. No nap time

Nap time is vital for parent sanity most days. | Smckenzie/iStock/Getty Images

Say what? Unfortunately, this one’s true, which is really too bad. After all, have you ever had to uproot a child from the schedule he so desperately needs? If so, you know that this is far from ideal. But at Disney, it seems to be the norm. Clearly, waiting in line for hours is far more important than a nap … said no one, ever, which brings us to our next point.

2. Long lines and miserable crowds

The crowds are insane. | Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

Anyone who’s ever stepped foot inside those not-so-magical gates is well aware that endless lines are par for the course. And is it ever really worth it? No, of course not. Perhaps waiting in line for over an hour would be of interest if there were alcohol waiting at the end, but unfortunately, that’s not the case.

3. Overpriced everything

Can we catch a break here? Apparently not. And the worst part is, ticket prices are just the beginning. What about all the money you waste — yes, waste — eating terrible food that’s bound to leave you feeling bloated? Seriously, it’s just one more thing to be annoyed about, because everything will be overpriced. Trust us.

4. Screaming children who aren’t yours

A crowd of over-sugared children is a lot to handle. | Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images

When it comes to screaming children, it’s one thing when they’re your own. When they belong to someone else, however, it’s a whole different ballgame. Don’t agree with us? Just think about how irritating any crying kid is, let alone a crowd of them running circles around you for days on end. Yeah, definitely not worth the headache.

5. Over-stimulation

It’s can all be very overwhelming. | Bertrand Guay/AFP/Getty Images

It’s a Small World? Hard pass. One look at just about any ride or attraction at Disney, and it’s no wonder why so many people can’t stand the over-the-top theme park. Everything is in-your-face obnoxious, with no escape route in sight. Ever.

6. Plastic, plastic, and more plastic

Pretty much everything is made of plastic. | Disney

Yes, everything’s fake. Fake buildings, fake smells on Main Street, and of course, a false sense of magic hidden around every corner. And it doesn’t stop there. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that Disney World is essentially a wasteland of cotton-candy-colored plastic objects, and it’s certainly no place for anyone who gives the slightest damn about the environment.

What about the Grand Canyon, or a western guest ranch? You have tons of choices, so don’t let Disney be your only go-to for your next family vacation.

7. Rooming with your children

Enjoy their crankiness from sugar and lack of sleep all night long. | Joe Raedle/Getty Images

One of the very best parts of any vacation is being able to kick back in the comfort — and privacy — of your own room. But at Disney, you can forget all about that, because it’s not going to happen. And we get it, you’ve planned a trip to Disney because you wanted to enjoy a trip with the whole family. Those are some lofty goals you’ve set, and you’ll have to let us know how that goes.